We are stepping into the past to bring you the blazing tales of the Bravest. Join us for our new series in collaboration with the @NYCFireMuseum, where we spotlight the pioneers of the FDNY who were the “First” to make history. “This is for those who love history and the FDNY. Each month we will celebrate a “First,” whether it’s an interesting fact or a trailblazer who ignited a legacy,” said Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh. | New York City Fire Department (FDNY)

Yesterday, FDNY Rescue Paramedic Joseph Hudak retired after 35 years of service to the City of New York. Paramedic Hudak began his career as an EMT in Harlem in 1988. Since then he became a Rescue Paramedic, a member of the Dignitary Protection Unit, Ceremonial Unit and the Counter Terrorism Task Force. He has competed in EMS competitions all over the country and the world with great success. As an instructor at the FDNY EMS Academy, he was instrumental in teaching EMTs and Paramedics and helped

At 3:05 pm today, Engine 246, Ladder 161, and Ladder 169 responded to Emmons Avenue at 23rd Street for a report of two people in the water in Sheepshead Bay. They were clinging to a dinghy that was sinking. L-161 and L-169 both deployed rescue swimmers, Firefighters Dan Palmieri and Matt Paz, who swam to the two victims in the water. Using a surfboard, they were pulled to shore. A third person who had jumped into the water to help the other two, was rescued by Marine 9 with the help of NYPD. All